Joe Baxter

Discussions during the meeting centered on several key areas. An enrollment update indicated increases in applications, accepts, and deposits, with a focus on converting prospects into admits and noting a strong incoming class composition, particularly in biology, chemistry, visual and performing arts, and computer science majors. The 2018-2019 budget process, aimed at reducing the campus's structural deficit through divisional cuts totaling $3.6 million and use of strategic reserves, was detailed. Progress toward the April 2020 Middle States reaccreditation self-study report was reviewed. The Research, Scholarship, and Creative Activity Expo highlighted student work. The President's Report outlined expense reduction strategies, including departmental reorganization, and confirmed there would be no layoffs of current, continuing full-time employees. Reports from various divisions covered topics such as the Student Association budget, the submission of a new B.S. in Environmental Sciences degree program, entrepreneurial activities supported by the Technology Incubator (including a business competition), a new articulation agreement with Jamestown Community College, the consolidation of package delivery services, and updates on fundraising pledges and diversity complaint statistics.

The College Council meeting included the unanimous passage of a resolution to change the entity name from College Council to University Council. Discussions covered the President's report, including addressing the financial deficit, championing excellence, implementing the academic master plan, and collaborations with Jamestown Community College (JCC), including identifying office space for JCC workforce development. The Academic Affairs report detailed the launch of six new online degree programs for January enrollment and updates on continuing crime lab explorations and new Bachelor's and graduate programs. The Academic Momentum initiative, aimed at improving retention and graduation rates, was also presented. The Finance and Administration report provided updates on capital projects, including Jewett Hall. Student Affairs noted the positive impact of incremental funding on student support services like food insecurity and mental health. Enrollment Management presented stable enrollment metrics from Fall 2023 through Fall 2025, despite increased competition, and announced a new scholarship model set for implementation in January 2026. The Student Association reported on reviewing their constitution and submitting a grant for an 'Outdoors for All' initiative.

The meeting included reports from the University President, Enrollment Management and Services, Academic Affairs, Student Affairs, Finance and Administration, the Student Association, and the University Senate. Discussions covered the New York State budget, enrollment strategies, JCC-Fredonia partnership, online degree programs, student activities, financial planning, and shared governance. The council also discussed the Academic Master Plan, Centers of Excellence, and various initiatives to support student success and university growth.

The College Council meeting included reports from various members, including the University President, VP for Finance and Administration, and VP for University Advancement. President Kolison introduced new cabinet members and discussed the New York State budget process and advocacy, the growing relationship with JCC, and priorities such as financial sustainability and student recruitment. Dr. Kendall summarized plans for yield activities, while Dr. Horowitz reviewed the Academic Master Plan and upcoming events. Mr. Lynch discussed budget awareness and control mechanisms, and Ms. Rohr updated the council on fundraising activities.

The SUNY Fredonia Strategic Plan, "True Blue Transformation" (2023-2028), focuses on five key goals: Academic Excellence (enhancing the student experience through experiential learning, support systems, and in-demand skills); Financial Sustainability and Stewardship (strengthening the financial position through strategic budgeting, affordability initiatives, and fundraising); Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Accessibility, and Belonging (cultivating a welcoming and inclusive environment through recruitment, training, and policy changes); Wellness and Wellbeing (promoting a culture of wellness through campus initiatives and community partnerships); and Distinctive Identity (establishing Fredonia's reputation as a regional leader through compelling messaging and strategic efforts). The plan aligns with SUNY's commitment to affordable access, student success, diversity, equity, and inclusion, research and scholarship, and economic development. Each goal includes specific objectives and metrics for measuring progress.